Troy Police pay tribute to their own

TROY -- Police honored their own Friday during a ceremony attended by officers, their families and friends, and special invited guests.

"I would like to recognize the police officers who were honored here today," Troy Police Commissioner Anthony Magnetto said to the assembled guests. "Words cannot express the pride I have in each of them and the profound respect that I feel in being associated with them."

Magnetto's remarks highlighted a ceremony in which dozens of awards, commendations, and citations were handed out to officers.

Chief of Police John Tedesco urged those attending to recognize the efforts of the entire department, support staff and the families of those who serve.

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"Please remember, that we assemble today to also recognize the efforts of all the men and women serving in the department," Tedesco said.

Among those honored at Friday morning's ceremony was Sergeant Adam Mason, who received the annual John J. Givney Award, which is equivalent to officer of the year.

The annual award named for the late chief is given to one officer each year for "extraordinary commitment to integrity, exceptional work in connection with their assignment."

Officer Christopher Pollay received a commendation for an attempted murder arrest on June 19, 2012. Pollay, through research, was able to locate records indicating the suspect was wanted in connection with an attempted murder.

Officer Sean McMahon received a commendation for a water rescue he performed in April 2012, during which he helped save woman from drowning in the Hudson River.

Receiving a commendation for a firearms arrest was Officer Arthur Hoffman, who identified a suspect with a loaded handgun. After a foot chase, Hoffman was able to take the suspect into custody and secure a loaded .40-caliber handgun.

In addition, entire units were singled out for praise for work over the past year.

The Troy Police Department Patrol Divi sion was commended for weapons arrest in August 2012.

The arrest of five occupants in a vehicle resulted in all five defendants pleading guilty to weapons possession charges, each receiving a sentence of five years behind bars.

Two handguns were also recovered during the arrest.

Magnetto called the effort a "high-risk vehicle stop," during which the officers "executed exceptional tactical cover and blocked all escape routes."

Among the other unit citations awarded went to patrol Division First Platoon for a robbery arrest, Patrol Division Second Platoon for a burglary arrest, Patrol Division Third Platoon for a burglary arrest and the Special Operation Section for their efforts throughout the year.

"Each member displayed the stoic determination to rid our streets of illicit drug dealers and violent offenders," Magnetto's dedication read. 'These members dedicated themselves to be humbly resolute in their pursuit of the criminal element that negatively impacts our communities."